Breed Standard: Welsh Springer Spaniel

The Welsh Springer Spaniel (WSS) is considered a relatively rare breed, meaning there are fewer of them globally so they are at a heightened risk of becoming extinct. As custodians of this beautiful breed, the WSS Breed Standard is a critical tool that supports breeder decisions as they work to strengthen the breed’s future.

The Breed Standard is normally established by the National Parent Club of a breed, but the WSS Club in Canada is brand new in early 2022 so below is the official WSS breed standard as established by experienced WSS breeders and approved by the Canadian Kennel Club. You may also be interested in the official American Kennel Club WSS Standard.

General Appearance

A symmetrical, compact, strong, merry, very active dog; not stilty, obviously built for endurance and activity.

Size

Approximate Height:

Dogs 19 inches (48 cm) at withers; Bitches 18 inches (46 cm) at withers.

Weight:

Should be 35-45 lb. (16-20 kg).

Coat and Colour

Straight or flat and thick, of a silky texture, never wiry or wavy. A curly coat is most objectionable. Rich red and white only.

Head

A short, chubby head is objectionable. Skull proportionate, of moderate length, slightly domed, clearly defined stop, well chiseled below the eyes. Muzzle: medium length, straight, fairly square; the nostrils well developed, and either flesh coloured, liver, or black acceptable. Jaw strong, neither undershot nor overshot. Eyes hazel, or dark, medium size, not prominent, nor sunken, nor showing haw. Ears set moderately low and hanging close to the cheeks, comparatively small and gradually narrowing towards the tip, covered with nice Setter-like feathering. While the length of feathering on the ears is of little consequence, the leather must be small.

Neck

Long and muscular, clean in throat, neatly set into long and sloping shoulders.

Forelegs

Medium length, straight, well boned, moderately feathered.

Body

Not long; strong and muscular with deep brisket, well-sprung ribs; length of body should be proportionate to length of leg and very well balanced; with muscular loin slightly arched and well coupled up.